Cycle World kicked off their 2008-2009 show this weekend here in Phoenix. I went down today to check it out. The show itself was somewhat dissapointing - a lot smaller than I expected. No matter, I mainly went for the demo rides. The big four were there plus Harley, Victory, Kymco, Ducati, and KTM. I went straight for the KTM tent because no one else really has anything I'm interested in (except mabye Ducati, but they they only had the Hypermotard out). I toyed with the idea of trying out the RC8 but the thought of crashing a $20,000 bike just doesn't appeal to me. I ended up on the 690 SMC. This bike is absolutely insane. About the same weight as the KLX but more than three times the power. Makes the KLX seem like a moped. Should be illegal to have that much fun. I'm half tempted to trade my KLX in on one tomorrow. No, not really but I'd still love to have one sittin' in the garage. Pretty pricey, though MSRP is 9 grand. If the show is near any of you guys you should check it out if only for the demos. You don't even need to pay admission for them. Get there early to sign up; they fill up fast.

http://www.ktm.com/690-SMC.100198.20.html

http://www.motorcycleshows.com/

 

I'm going to the show in Greenville, SC in mid/late Feb.

I can't wait! I'm tossin' around the idea of a Bimmer GS1200, but it would probably be in the spring of '10 if I got one. Just never saw one in person, and it'll be a great opportunity!